In a significant political development ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has thrown his full weight behind his deputy, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, endorsing him as the party’s preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship race.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, while speaking at a recent political gathering, described Deputy Governor Hamzat as a capable, experienced, and “governor-ready” leader who has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the growth and development of the state.
“This is a deputy governor that is worth governor from day one, and we thank God that he is taking that leadership now,” the governor declared, signaling a strong vote of confidence in Hamzat’s capacity to take over the reins of governance in Africa’s largest city economy.
The endorsement is widely seen as a major boost for Hamzat’s political ambition within the All Progressives Congress, as party stakeholders begin consultations and alignments ahead of the primaries.
Political observers note that Sanwo-Olu’s backing could significantly shape the dynamics of the race, given his influence within the party structure in Lagos.
Hamzat, who has served as deputy governor since 2019, is credited with playing a pivotal role in policy formulation and the execution of key development initiatives under the current administration.
His technocratic background and experience in governance have earned him recognition across political and professional circles.
Analysts say the governor’s public endorsement underscores continuity within the APC in Lagos, a state often referred to as the “Centre of Excellence,” where succession planning has historically followed a strategic and structured pattern.
While the party is yet to officially release guidelines for the primaries if it would be direct primaries, Sanwo-Olu’s declaration has already sparked conversations among party faithful and political watchers, many of whom see Hamzat as a formidable contender in the forthcoming race.
As the political season gradually gathers momentum, all eyes remain on the APC in Lagos, where the battle for the party’s ticket is expected to intensify in the coming months.
